Britons consume over five billion bananas annually, averaging 100 per person, yet the fruit's short shelf life often leads to waste. A simple kitchen hack, however, can extend freshness by up to 10 days, according to food experts.
Once bananas reach your preferred ripeness, storing them in the fridge away from other fruits can significantly prolong their usability, says Kate Hall, founder of The Full Freezer. This method halts the ripening process, keeping the fruit yellow and sweet for longer.
For bananas that become overripe, peeling and freezing them offers a versatile solution. Frozen bananas can be added directly to pancakes, smoothies, or even turned into ice cream, reducing food waste.
Professional baker Sarah Bridenstine highlights that bananas have unique storage needs. To speed up ripening of green bananas, bag them together to trap ethylene gas. Once ripe, refrigerate to slow down blackening. Keep bananas separate from other fruits, as they release gases that can prematurely ripen nearby produce.
Other short-lived fruits like strawberries and blueberries also benefit from proper storage. Using containers with ventilation holes prevents moisture buildup, extending their freshness.
